New York Flag |
| New York State Motto | |
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The New York State Motto The New York motto was adopted in 1778 is expressed in Latin as "Excelsior!" which means: "Ever Upward!" The Meaning of the New York State Motto The meaning of this famous motto reflects the attitude and hopes of the people of New York following the outbreak of the War of Independence (1775–1783). The Latin word "Excelsior!" also has the meaning of "higher", "superior" or "lordly", although it is commonly translated as "Ever Upward." These sentiments of the people of New York are emphasized on the flag and seal which displays the figure of Liberty whose foot treads upon a crown that represents freedom from the British monarchy. | |
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The Origin and Meaning of the New York Nicknames The American citizens who live in, or who come from New York, are referred to as New Yorkers. The history, origin and meaning of each of the nicknames are as follows: The Empire State The official nickname of the Empire State was in use as early as 1819 and was intended to denote intentions of the New Yorkers to become both culturally distinct and to build a large-scale business enterprise. The name became extremely popular and gave rise to the name of Manhattan's Empire State Building, which opened in 1931. The world famous Empire State Building was the world's tallest skyscraper for many years. The Knickerbocker State The Knickerbocker nickname is a reference to the early Dutch colonists who wore breeches called Knickerbockers that were gathered and banded just below the knee. A book called the 'History of New York' written by Washington Irving in 1809, under the pseudonym Diedrich Knickerbocker, popularized the term. The Excelsior State The meaning of the Excelsior nickname is described in respect of the New York motto. |
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The Constitution of New York The constitution of New York establishes the basic rights of its citizens and echoes the words and sentiments of the motto. The preamble (opening) of the constitution is as follows: "We The People of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our Freedom, in order to secure its blessings, DO ESTABLISH THIS CONSTITUTION."
Preamble of the Constitution of New York | |
New York State Motto and Nickname for Kids
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